As an electric vehicle owner, you know the importance of understanding the options for recharging your vehicle on the go. Finding a reliable charging station network can mean the difference between a carefree road trip and being stranded without power. With the rapidly growing number of public charging stations across North America, choosing a network has become an increasingly complex decision. This guide provides an in-depth overview of the major EV charging networks so you can find the right network to meet your needs.
We’ll explore the coverage, pricing, features, and benefits of each network. We’ll also provide tips for getting started and making the most of your membership. If you’ve been hesitating to take your EV on long-distance drives due to uncertainty about charging, this guide to ev charging networks will give you the confidence to travel wherever the open road takes you. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to choose a charging network that keeps your EV powered for all of life’s adventures.
Table of Contents
Overview of Major EV Charging Networks
As an eco-friendly EV owner, you have several options for charging your vehicle on the go. The major EV charging networks in the U.S. and Canada include:
- ChargePoint – The largest network with over 112,000 charging spots. They offer both level 2 charging for slower charging at home or work as well as DC fast charging for quick charges on the road. Membership plans provide access to the entire network.
- EVgo – A popular DC fast charging network with over 800 fast charging locations across the U.S. They are expanding quickly through partnerships with businesses like grocery stores, retail outlets, and restaurants. Access fees apply to public stations.
- Electrify America – A subsidiary of VW Group of America, with over 2,000 DC fast charging stations across the country. They aim to have the first cross-country EV charging network. Charging plans provide unlimited access.
- Greenlots – A leading provider of open standards-based EV charging software and services. They operate a network of over 5,000 level 2 charging stations in the U.S. and Canada. Membership plans offer access to the full network.
Using an EV charging network for the bulk of your charging needs provides maximum flexibility and range confidence. You can use websites like Electrly to compare the locations, charging speeds, pricing models, and membership benefits of the major networks to find one that meets your specific needs as an EV driver. The future of electric mobility depends on reliable and convenient charging options, and these networks are leading the way.
Electrly EV Charging Service to Find Stations
Locate Charging Stations
To find EV charging stations near you or along your route, use the Electrly mobile app or website. Electrly provides an interactive map showing the locations of over 12,000 charging stations across North America, including both Electrly and third-party-operated stations. Filter by connector type, network, and charging speed to find compatible stations. Save your favorite stations for easy access to future charging needs.
Charging Options
Electrly’s charging network offers several charging levels to suit your needs. Level 2 stations provide charging at up to 7.2kW, adding 12 to 22 miles of range per hour of charging. For faster top-ups, seek out Electrly’s 50kW to 350kW DC Fast Chargers which can add up to 200 miles of range in 30 minutes. Some locations also offer high-powered charging over 150kW for a capable vehicles. Choose a charging plan or pay-as-you-go at $0.30 to $0.40 per kWh depending on charging speed.
24/7 Customer Support
Electrly’s charging stations are supported 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you experience any issues while charging, call the support number on the charging station to speak with an Electrly representative. Agents can troubleshoot problems, reset stations remotely, and dispatch technicians if needed. Real-time status updates for all stations are also available through the mobile app and website.
Additional Perks
As an Electrly customer, you’ll receive additional benefits like charging credit rewards, access to members-only events, and product discounts. Electrly also partners with other EV-related companies to provide bundle offers for things like home charging equipment, EV accessories, and vehicle purchases or leases. Check the Electrly website for the latest promotions and incentives available to customers.
By utilizing Electrly’s expansive charging network and taking advantage of its convenient services, EV drivers can travel with confidence knowing there are many options for recharging along the way. Locate a station, start a session, and get back on the road without delay thanks to Electrly’s simple and reliable EV charging solutions.
EV Charging Options: Level 1 vs. Level 2 vs. DC Fast Charging
When purchasing an electric vehicle (EV), you will need to consider how and where you will charge your vehicle. There are currently three levels of EV charging options available: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging.
Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V AC outlet to provide charging via the cordset that comes with your EV. This method is the slowest, typically adding 2 to 5 miles of range per hour of charging. While convenient for some, the long charging duration may not suit all drivers’ needs.
Level 2 charging utilizes a 240V AC outlet to deliver faster charging, usually 10 to 30 miles of range per hour. Installation of a Level 2 charger will require an electrician to install the proper outlet. Level 2 charging is often used for charging at home, where vehicles are parked for longer periods.
DC fast charging, or Level 3, provides the fastest charging, delivering 60 to 150 miles of range in 30 minutes by converting AC power to DC power. However, DC fast chargers are more expensive to install and operate, so they are usually only available at public charging locations along major highways and in urban areas.
To determine the right EV charging options for your needs, you must consider where and how often you will charge your vehicle. While faster options allow for quicker charging, the associated costs may not suit all budgets. Carefully weigh all factors to choose the level that provides the most convenient and cost-effective charging for your daily driving needs. The future of sustainable transportation depends on practical and accessible EV charging infrastructure. With conscientious choices, we can make that future a reality.
The Future of EV Charging Infrastructure
The electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure industry has grown exponentially in recent years and is poised for massive expansion over the next decade. As EV adoption increases worldwide, more advanced charging networks will be necessary to meet demand and enable long-distance travel.
Faster Charging
Level 3 fast charging, also known as DC fast charging, will become more widespread. These high-powered chargers can provide an 80% charge in under 30 minutes. Companies like Electrly are developing new fast charging technology to further reduce charging times. Wider deployment of fast chargers along highway routes and in urban centers will make EVs more practical and convenient for more people.
Increased Connectivity
The charging infrastructure of the future will be highly connected. EV owners will be able to easily find available chargers, check wait times, and make payments through mobile apps and in-vehicle navigation systems. Smart charging networks will also have capabilities like dynamic load balancing to maximize efficiency. Connected charging infrastructure is key to an optimized charging experience for EV drivers.
Expanded Coverage
For EVs to reach mass adoption, there must be ample charging access for apartment dwellers, long-distance travelers, and more. In the coming years, expect to see more workplace charging, public charging in city centers, and fast charging along travel corridors. Companies like Electrly are working with businesses, utilities, and government agencies to increase charging access in more locations. Widespread charging coverage, especially fast charging, will drive greater EV uptake.
The EV charging infrastructure of the future looks bright. With continued innovation from companies like Electrly, faster charging, increased connectivity, and expanded coverage are on the horizon. These developments will make EVs more convenient and help accelerate the transition to sustainable electric mobility. Overall, the coming years will be transformative for the EV charging industry and EV owners alike.
Conclusion
As you’ve seen, there are many options for charging your electric vehicle on the road. The key is doing your research to understand the networks, connectors, and rates that will meet your specific needs. Compare the coverage maps to your common routes and destinations. Consider signing up for a membership to save on costs if you charge frequently. And don’t forget that some hotels, restaurants, and workplaces also offer complimentary charging for customers and employees.
The world of EV charging is constantly evolving. New networks are launching, partnerships are forming, and technology is improving charging speeds and connectivity. While it can seem complicated, the basics of charging on the go are quite straightforward. Do some planning, know before you go, and enjoy the journey in your emission-free EV. The future of sustainable transportation is here – just make sure you know how to plug in along the way!
